UNACCUSTOMED TO WAITING - Linda Hudson-Smith
BET/New Spirit
October 2004
SYNOPSIS: When a wrongly accused minister is finally released from prison, he forms, UNACCUSTOMED TO WAITING, a support group for men whose wives or girlfriends have been imprisoned, inspired by his wife's support group, LADIES IN WAITING.
INSPIRATIONAL FICTION |4+ | Tricia-Anne Blades
REVIEW: Linda Hudson-Smith has done it again! She has produced an emotionally gripping, insightful and soul-searching novel in Unaccustomed to Waiting. This novel continues the saga of the four women in the prequel Ladies In Waiting. Where there once existed insecurity, fear, low self esteem and a genuine lack of direction, this novel shows growth and maturity, a development of relationships with self and with others and the ability to handle what life dishes out through prayer. It is as a result of the success of these women that Reverend Jesse Covington is compelled to direct men who are naturally impatient to become for their women what their women for years have been to them.
The novel strikes at the heart of gender issues. It addresses many questions that gender is afraid to ask as they do not want to be faced with the answer. It is through the use of humor and wit, through excellent characterization that the author is able to develop a powerful novel in Unaccustomed to Waiting. It is through each scenario, each uncovered issue that we are guided to a greater understanding of what it means to wait.
Seeds planted through prayer reap a powerful harvest. This is seen in the characters of the novel. The main characters are Rev. Jesse and his wife, Marlene. They stand united in love, prayer and purpose. It is because of this powerful combination that they are able to see the fruit of their labor in the supporting characters. Rosalind is able to understand the power of prayer and accept forgiveness; this leads to a love she would never have imagined; Alexis and Keisha provide the wit and humor and in so doing because their personalities are so different are used by the author to develop the comparative aspect of the novel. They too recognize the power of prayer and purpose is established in their walk.
Emotional and psychological development of the men in the novel is admirable. The author takes the reader on the journey that these men must go through in order to become who they are. Mrs. Hudson- Smith uses the concept of “ a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step” is brought out in Zach, Eric and Easton. Each man has a different problem but by taking the first step they are able to have great accomplishments as the novel comes to a close.
Characterization is excellent. It was necessary to develop the story with many characters in order for the reader to have a wholesome view. This is an excellent novel. It is enjoyable, educational and impactful. A recommended read for every woman and the man who loves them!
tricia@romanceincolor.com (1st December 2004)